Forsyth Medical Center 
Osteoporosis
| Osteoporosis affects men and women, but is most prevalent in women. More than 50 percent of adult women of age 50 in the United States are already affected by this disease. |
Osteoporosis is a disease that affects the quantity and quality of your bones. It is a debilitating condition in which bones become fragile and are easily fractured. Although there can be outward signssuch as a forward curving of the neck and spine or a decrease in heightsomeone suffering from osteoporosis usually has no symptoms until a break occurs.
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
- Gender: Women have a much greater chance of developing osteoporosis due to thinner, lighter bones and a decrease in estrogen that occurs during menopause.
- Age: Fracture risks double every six to seven years after the age of 50.
- Heredity: If there is a history of osteoporosis in your family, you may have a higher risk of getting the disease.
- Race: Caucasian and Asian women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis.
- Body Size: Women with a low body weight (under 127 lbs.) and a small-boned) frame are at an increased risk.
- Lifestyle: A diet low in calcium with an inadequate supply of vitamin D, cigarette smoking and excessive use of alcohol are all risk factors. Lack of regular exercise also increases. You chance of getting osteoporosis.
How to Contact Us
The Breast Clinic switchboard is open for calls Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.. It is closed between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. for lunch and on all major holidays. We can be contacted at (336) 718-4700.
